Transfiguration Wasn’t a Costume Change — It Was a Soul Reveal
St. Joseph Church, Umralla Inaugurated as Pilgrim Centre for the Year of St. Francis
Photo by Sandi Mager on Unsplash
St. Joseph Church, Umralla Inaugurated as Pilgrim Centre for the Year of St. Francis
Umralla (Nallasopara West), Vasai | June 7, 2026
A spirit of joy, prayer and Franciscan fraternity filled the air as hundreds of faithful gathered at St. Joseph Church, Umralla, on Sunday, June 7, 2026, for the inauguration of the church as a Pilgrim Centre for the Year of St. Francis. The historic celebration united clergy, religious and laity from across the Diocese of Vasai in commemorating the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi and marked the beginning of a year dedicated to pilgrimage, prayer and spiritual renewal.
The Year of St. Francis has been proclaimed by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV from January 10, 2026, to January 10, 2027, marking eight centuries since the passing of the beloved Saint of Assisi into eternal life. Through this special jubilee year, the Holy Father invites the Christian faithful to rediscover the life and witness of St. Francis, becoming models of holiness and instruments of peace in today's world. As an ideal continuation of the Ordinary Jubilee Year of 2025, the Apostolic Penitentiary has granted a Plenary Indulgence, under the usual conditions, to the faithful who participate devoutly in this extraordinary jubilee.
Recognising its Franciscan heritage and spiritual significance, St. Joseph Church, Umralla, has been designated as a Pilgrim Centre for the Diocese of Vasai during this special year. Pilgrims visiting the church will have the opportunity to deepen their relationship with Christ, strengthen their faith and draw inspiration from the Franciscan values of humility, simplicity, fraternity, service and peace. Throughout the jubilee year, the church is expected to welcome pilgrims from different parishes and regions who wish to participate in the spiritual graces associated with the Year of St. Francis.
The celebration commenced at the Portiuncula Clergy Home, where Bishop Thomas D'Souza led the faithful in prayer before the start of a grand procession to the church. Accompanied by a band, flower girls, priests, religious and a large gathering of parishioners, the beautifully adorned statue of St. Francis of Assisi was carried in procession amidst hymns and prayers. The sight of the faithful walking together in devotion created a powerful witness to the enduring relevance of the Franciscan charism. Many parishioners described the procession as a moving expression of faith, as prayers, hymns and the joyful presence of the faithful transformed the streets into a pathway of pilgrimage.
The procession itself reflected the very essence of St. Francis' spirituality. It was marked not by grandeur alone, but by a spirit of simplicity, unity and joyful faith. Young and old, clergy and laity walked side by side, embodying the Franciscan vision of fraternity that transcends all barriers and brings people together as one family in Christ.
Upon arriving at St. Joseph Church, Bishop Thomas D'Souza led the congregation in prayer and solemnly opened the doors of the church, symbolically welcoming the faithful to enter as pilgrims of hope. This meaningful gesture marked the formal inauguration of the church as a Pilgrim Centre for the Year of St. Francis and the beginning of a year-long invitation to prayer, conversion and spiritual renewal. For many present, the opening of the church doors symbolised Christ's invitation to enter more deeply into a life of faith and discipleship.
The liturgical service that followed introduced the faithful to the significance of the 800th anniversary of St. Francis and the purpose of the jubilee year. The congregation was reminded of the saint's extraordinary journey of conversion and his radical commitment to living the Gospel. His life continues to inspire Christians throughout the world to embrace simplicity, care for the poor, love for creation and unwavering trust in God's providence.
The Holy Eucharist was then celebrated by Bishop Thomas D'Souza. Joining him were numerous priests from different regions who had gathered to grace the occasion, along with Fr. Brian Bandya, OFM Cap., Provincial. Also present was Fr. Nitin D'Souza, OFM Cap., Parish Priest of St. Joseph Church, Umralla, whose leadership and dedication have continued to nurture the parish's Franciscan identity. The presence of clergy, religious and faithful from various parts of the diocese reflected the unity of the local Church and the enduring appeal of the Franciscan charism.
Throughout the Eucharistic celebration, the faithful were encouraged to embrace the values that defined the life of St. Francis. In a world often marked by division, anxiety and materialism, his witness remains a compelling reminder that true joy is found in humility, simplicity and a deep relationship with God. The gathering served as a living testimony to these values, as clergy, religious and laity united in prayer and fellowship.
The celebration continued in an atmosphere of thanksgiving and community as parishioners and guests shared in the joy of this historic milestone. The occasion was not merely the inauguration of a pilgrim centre but a reaffirmation of the parish's commitment to living and promoting the Franciscan spirit.
As St. Joseph Church, Umralla, begins this special year as a designated Pilgrim Centre, it opens its doors to pilgrims seeking prayer, reflection and a deeper encounter with God. The inauguration marks a significant milestone in the history of the parish and a moment of grace for the Diocese of Vasai, inviting the faithful to embark on a journey of spiritual renewal inspired by the timeless Franciscan values of peace, humility, fraternity and love.
As the Saint of Assisi once prayed:
"Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace."
May this Year of St. Francis inspire all who visit St. Joseph Church, Umralla, to become instruments of God's peace and mercy. As pilgrims cross its threshold throughout the year, may they encounter Christ more deeply and carry the Franciscan spirit of simplicity, fraternity and joyful discipleship into their homes, parishes and communities.
Watch the Celebration
Procession and Inauguration of St. Joseph Church, Umralla as a Pilgrim Centre for the Year of St. Francis:
https://youtube.com/shorts/DXdWZ2fi6Fk?si=sQD83Ck95zEUSJp2
https://youtu.be/uNqEq4bCzYw?si=WM4YaRSnOsJ89KvU
About the Author
For 15 years, Fr. Nitin DSouza OFM Cap has quietly carried the cross of service, lighting hearts with his words and lifting souls through his prayerful presence. Known for his compassionate heart, powerful homilies, and humble leadership, he is not just a priest at the altar but a father in the truest sense—walking with his people through every high and low.
Rooted deeply in the Eucharist and guided by the Holy Spirit, Fr. Nitin’s priesthood is a testament to what it means to love without limits and serve without seeking spotlight. Whether he's preaching hope, listening without judgment, or simply showing up when it matters most—he lives out Christ, quietly and courageously.
His life is not just a ministry. It’s a message:
Faith doesn't always roar. Sometimes, it just stands steady… and serves.
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